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July is known as Ultraviolet Safety Month, a time to raise awareness about the potential dangers of ultraviolet (UV) rays and the importance of protecting ourselves in the workplace. At STC (Safety Training & Compliance), we are dedicated to creating safer workplaces and preserving human life through workplace safety. In this blog, we shed light on UV safety, providing valuable information and guidelines to ensure a safe working environment.

Understanding the Hazards of UV Rays

Ultraviolet rays are invisible, high-energy rays emitted by the sun. While some exposure to sunlight is beneficial for the production of vitamin D, excessive exposure to UV rays can lead to harmful effects. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can cause skin damage, eye injuries, and even increase the risk of skin cancer. It is crucial for both employers and employees to be aware of these hazards and take appropriate measures to minimize the risks.

Protective Measures for UV Safety

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Implementing the use of appropriate PPE is essential to safeguard against UV radiation. Protective clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats, can effectively shield the sun. Additionally, using UV-protective eyewear with proper coverage can protect the eyes from potential damage.

Sunscreen Application: Encourage the use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Employees should apply sunscreen generously to exposed skin areas, at least 15 minutes before going outdoors. Regular reapplication is crucial, especially if working outdoors for extended periods.

Shade and Breaks: When feasible, provide shaded areas for employees to take breaks. Encourage frequent breaks in shaded areas to minimize direct exposure to the sun during peak UV hours, usually between 10 am and 4 pm.

Creating a Culture of UV Safety

Promoting UV safety goes beyond implementing guidelines; it requires fostering a culture of awareness and responsibility within the workplace. Conduct regular training sessions to educate employees about the dangers of UV rays and the importance of UV safety practices. Encourage open communication regarding any concerns or observations related to UV exposure.

Ultraviolet Safety Month reminds us that protecting ourselves from UV rays is crucial for maintaining workplace safety and overall well-being. By following the guidelines mentioned above and fostering a culture of UV safety, we can significantly reduce the risk of UV-related hazards. At STC, we are committed to providing educational resources and training to help you create a safer work environment. Want to learn more about UV safety? Check out our blog today!

Photo Sourced from STC

At STC, we believe in keeping employees safe in every situation. July is Ultraviolet Safety Month, so we will focus on highlighting the importance of UV and heat protection, especially in the harsh summer temperatures we have been experiencing the last few months. Here’s everything you need to know about protecting yourself from UV Rays during Ultraviolet Safety Month!

The Importance of UV Protection 

As the summer heat continues to rise, the importance of UV protection cannot be overstated. To celebrate Ultraviolet Safety Month, we are working to create awareness about the importance of protecting our eyes and skin from the side effects of UV rays. Follow these crucial steps to protect yourself and others on your crew from UV light exposure:

  • Wear at least 15 SPF sunscreen or higher during the day
  • Cover exposed skin with sleeves, pants, hats and sunglasses
  • Try staying in the shade when the sun is the most intense

The Effects of Prolonged Exposure

Whether the UV light is coming from a natural source or an artificial source, the effects are the same. Prolonged exposure to UV light can lead to multiple forms of cancer, premature aging of the skin and a weakened immune system. It can also affect vision, cause sunburns and cause cataracts to form. It’s crucial to keep yourself, your family and your crew safe from UV rays. 

Heat Continues to Be An Issue

While we continue to work through record-breaking heat, it’s important to remember that the hottest month of the year is yet to come. August is known to be particularly hot with some of the hottest days ever recorded in the United States. Keep your crew safe by making an even bigger effort to protect them from UV light, heat illness and even death. We are working through this heat together and our biggest goal is to ensure the safety of everyone on our team and yours. 

No matter how you choose to protect yourself from UV rays, STC is always here to help you make safety simple. We offer a wide variety of managed safety services, instructor-led training and safety consulting services that will help build a safety culture around your business. Want to learn more about protecting workers from extreme heat with STC? Check out our blog!

Photo Sourced from STC